-->Nov. 6, 2002 -- Losing weight is just the first step in transfo
Nov. 6, 2002 -- Losing weight is just the first step in transforming a person's body after overcoming extreme obesity. Researchers say the growing popularity of gastric bypass surgery, which creates a small stomach "pouch" to help people eat less and lose weight quickly, has led to a rise in the need for body contouring plastic surgery to remove excess skin created by massive weight loss.
While standard body contouring techniques may work well on smaller patients, a new study shows a modified approach can produce better results for moderate to large body types.
"The phenomenon of massive weight loss is a new development in the medical community due to gastric bypass surgery," says researcher Dennis Hurwitz, MD, of the University of Pittsburgh, in a news release. Hurwitz presented his study this week at the annual meeting of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons in San Antonio, Texas.
The study found that by effectively mapping incisions on the body before surgery as well as using a combination of new and standard cutting and shaping techniques, researchers were able to produce more successful and esthetically pleasing results for the patients.
"All of the patients who participated in the study are extremely pleased with the end result," says Hurwitz. "In fact, 39 of the 40 patients in this study rated the outcome of their surgery very good or excellent."
The first step of this modified approach involves not only mapping the excess tissue to be removed but also anticipating the movement of the skin and scars that will be left behind. That way the surgeon can place the incisions where they will be hidden by underwear and allow the patient to feel better about their appearance.
The second step requires using special surgical techniques to shape and make incisions in the skin to reduce bulk and minimize scarring.
